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Dozens Arrested Outside US Embassy in London Over Support for Palestine Action

In a dramatic escalation of tensions, 139 arrests were made outside the US embassy in London following a demonstration supporting Palestine Action, a group proscribed under the Terrorism Act. This event highlights the ongoing legal and political challenges faced by those who support the group.

Dozens Arrested Outside US Embassy in London Over Support for Palestine Action
Author
Democracy News Live Desk
Date
31 Oct 2026
Read
2 min
A Call to Action

In the heart of London, a group of activists gathered outside the US embassy. The atmosphere was charged with determination.

Coverage
The Proscribed Group

Palestine Action has been officially designated as a proscribed group under the Terrorism Act. This legal status has created significant tension surrounding the group's activities and the legal implications for its supporters.

Sky News
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The Met Police say 139 people have been arrested at a Palestine Action rally outside the US embassy in London. Police had warned people attending protests in support of the proscribed group that they could be arrested if they did not hold up placards in support of the banned organisation. Sky's @lottyleeming watched dozens of peaceful arrests. šŸ”— https://t.co/LPiikeu3Cw

8:19 PM Ā· 31 Oct 2026
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The Supreme Court Appeal

The legal battle against Palestine Action's designation reached a critical juncture when the Supreme Court began hearing an appeal on 4 November 2025. The case is being closely watched, with supporters hoping for a ruling that would overturn the designation.

Many were detained specifically for expressing support for the proscribed group.

The Night of the Protest

During a recent demonstration, a large group of protesters gathered outside the US embassy on 31 October 2026. The protest followed the Supreme Court appeal. Speakers rallied the crowd, emphasizing the importance of standing up for their cause.

Al Jazeera English
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Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the US Embassy in London to oppose the UK government's ban on Palestine Action and show support for the group. Reports confirmed 139 arrests, with the majority made on suspicion of expressing support for a proscribed organisation. https://t.co/7VN7sMGmRe

11:30 PM Ā· 31 Oct 2026
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The Arrests

The Metropolitan Police made a total of 139 arrests during the operation. Many were detained specifically for expressing support for the proscribed group.

The Impact on Civil Liberties

Charles Allison expressed, "I decided that I ought to try and do something, and this is the little bit that I’m doing. I fear for our civil liberties, which are being devalued and watered down."

Metropolitan Police
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A Section 35 dispersal order will be in place in parts of central London from 8am to 11pm today. This is following information that a group are planning to attend an event and express support for a proscribed organisation, which is an offence under the Terrorism Act. The order will apply to the area outlined in the below map and means officers can order a person to leave the area or face arrest, where certain conditions apply. Updates on today's policing operation will be posted on this thread.

8:24 AM Ā· 31 Oct 2026
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The Broader Context

The arrest of supporters of Palestine Action highlights the broader context of legal and political challenges faced by those who support the group. The designation of Palestine Action as a proscribed group has had far-reaching implications, affecting its supporters. The legal battle continues, with the Supreme Court's decision expected to have significant ramifications.

Coverage
Where We Stand Now

As the dust settles, the events of that night remain a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions surrounding the group's activities. The arrest of over 100 protesters underscores the complex interplay between free speech and the law. The future of Palestine Action and its supporters hangs in the balance, with the Supreme Court's decision set to shape the landscape.

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